If you have many graveyard shifts or have to go frequently overseas, you have an elevated risk of circadian rhythm sleep disorder. This medical disorder can affect your performance at school or work if left untreated. You should consider the circadian rhythm Glendale treatments at Sonoran Sleep Center if you are looking for long-term relief from your sleep disorder.
An overview of circadian rhythm sleep disorder
Circadian rhythm sleep disorder is a medical condition that disrupts your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and facilitates several biological processes. Biological activities like brain activity, cell regeneration, and hormone production operate on a 24-hour cycle, which depends on environmental factors like physical activity, meal timing, and light and darkness. A disruption in your circadian rhythm can lead to a circadian rhythm sleep disorder that leads to daytime sleepiness and depression in severe cases. You may also find it challenging to sleep soundly at night, which can affect your school or work performance. If your sleep disorder affects the quality of your life, visit your doctor for an exam and treatment. The sooner you address the disorder, the sooner you will recover from your go-easy lifestyle.
Sleep disorders to be aware of
There are several forms of circadian rhythm sleep disorders, each with unique sleep disruption patterns and insomnia. These sleep disorders may significantly affect your physical and mental health if left untreated.
- Delayed sleep phase disorder
If you find yourself sleeping for two hours longer than your usual sleep cycle, you may have a delayed sleep phase disorder. For instance, you may fall asleep at midnight and wake up at noon. This sleep disorder is often genetic and more prevalent in young adults and adolescents. It can make you seem unmotivated and lazy to perform your morning duties.
- Advanced sleep phase disorder
People with this sleep disorder tend to fall asleep early in the evening, about 6-9 pm, and awaken in the early morning from 2-5 am. It is more prevalent in older and middle-aged adults. You may also complain of insomnia and become sleepy early in the evening.
- Jet lag
This sleep disorder disrupts your internal clock due to long air travel time. It may also make it challenging for you to adjust to the new time zone. Jet lag may also lead to mood disturbance and uneasiness, unexplained tiredness, and changes in your bowel and stomach function.
How to address circadian sleep disorders
During your appointment at Sonoran Sleep Center, Dr. Patel may discuss your symptoms and review your medical history. She may also perform blood work and ask you to keep a sleep diary for a few weeks. If these activities fail to show the underlying cause of your medical condition, your provider may recommend an overnight sleep study. Your treatment plan will rely on the type of sleep disorder you have. Dr. Patele may recommend bright light therapy, keeping to a regular sleep time, avoiding naps, avoiding nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol, and prescription medications. The ultimate goal is to improve your sleep quality.
If your sleep disorder interferes with your daily life, call Dr. Patel or schedule an appointment online for diagnosis and treatment.
